STORY
The United Kingdom has strongly condemned the “reckless” Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea, highlighting the tragic loss of innocent mariners and the severe threat these actions pose to global trade and the environment. Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on Yemen on 9 July 2025, Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, reiterated the UK’s commitment to countering the Houthi threat and restoring freedom of navigation.
Ambassador Woodward emphasised three key points during her statement. Firstly, she underscored the gravity of the Houthi attacks, which have led to loss of life, undermined maritime security and global trade, and created significant environmental risks. She stressed the UK’s dedication to working with partners and supporting the UN Special Envoy in a coordinated international effort to address these issues. Furthermore, she pointed out that the continued smuggling of weapons into Yemen by the Houthis is a clear violation of the arms embargo mandated by Resolution 2216, urging the international community to redouble efforts to enforce compliance and disrupt illicit arms flows.
Secondly, Ambassador Woodward drew attention to the rapidly deteriorating food security situation in Yemen. Citing the FAO’s Integrated Food Security Phase Classification, she noted that the number of Yemenis facing food insecurity is projected to increase by over a million to 18.1 million by February next year. The UK’s Food Security Safety Nets programme will provide $79 million in assistance this year to help feed at least 864,000 Yemenis and support economic reforms within the Government of Yemen. She also condemned the Houthis’ “arbitrary and cruel detention of aid workers,” which is severely hindering humanitarian efforts, and reiterated the call for their immediate and unconditional release.
Finally, Ambassador Woodward stressed that Yemenis have endured a “toxic combination of insecurity and dire humanitarian conditions” for far too long. She urged a redoubling of efforts towards achieving an inclusive and sustainable peace in the country, affirming the UK’s continued support for the UN Special Envoy’s work in this regard.